Talking Technique: Modes on a String

Typically when we play scales, we play across the strings, but there’s a lot of value in playing all the way up a single string. It helps us to think in positions and to mentally know how many steps you are skipping as you walk up the string. Today we’ll be working on our theory as well as our technique as we go through the modes.

If that sounds scary, don’t worry! There are only three “building blocks” that you’ll encounter when going up the string. We’ll work through each mode with fingerings all starting on the same root note to reinforce the differences in how to build them.

Today’s tip: When you’re making shifts, be sure to make them smooth! We’ve got an easy yet powerful exercise to focus on smooth jumps.

Austrian-gone-Californian Ariane Cap is a bassist, educator, blogger and author. In her book "Music Theory for the Bass Player” and corresponding 20-week online course, she teaches music theory, bass technique, bass line creation and fretboard fitness in a systematic, practical and experiential way. Contact her via her blog or website.

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Hi Allen, hmm, trying to think what you are referring to. Maybe the videos that go with the book? They are here https://arisbassblog.com/free-vids-to-book/ and modes are videos #70 through 76. Could also have been something I did for Scott’s bass lessons.

Really good information, presented in an accessible format. I’ve come back to upright in the past year or so, and need work on getting out of first position naturally. The single string scale is a great way to reinforce landings, and I will use it.
I would like to suggest you adjust the recording, as the fingerboard slides/squeaks became a distraction to me.
Again, thanks.

Hi Mark, I am tempted to ask if you are a guitarist ;) But yeah, I think it is a valid technique, sure. Especially in the upper octave of the bass, no problem. In the lower octave you will stretch a ton, especially with something like lydian, which is all shifts. In order to understand the modes I think the way in the video is better because it helps to understand the modes on top of being a good tech exercise.

Thanks Ariane, I agree that the fingerings in your lesson are great to use. Not a guitarist, just have used the 1234 for a long time (in addition to those in your teaching) and like the way it sounds in a lot of situations.

I really like the approach of starting every mode from the same note, I think it’s working for me. I have been practising this a lot this week ,without looking at the fretboard, and it’s really paying back.
Thanks Ariane, another great lesson.